There are many reasons to give to charity. Not the least is your own self interest if you give to a charity that provides services to people with, or does research about, your health condition.

Before you give to a charity, it is advisable to learn about its programs and to check how much of the money you give will go to the program(s) you care about instead of overhead. Be sure the organization is the charity you think it is: many organizations have similar names.

Gifts can be in the form of cash, real or personal property, securities or insurance products such as Life Insurance or Annuities, or by means of a trust. You can also donate as you make your every day purchases either through companies which give a percentage of each purchase to charity or through an affinity credit card.

It is not advisable to give away so much so that it could affect your quality of health care or standard of living, regardless of how long you or your doctors may think you have to live.

You can increase your charity dollars by matching employer programs.

There are charity advisers if you need help deciding on the best charity(ies) for you.

Charitable donations are tax deductible. Claiming a deduction reduces your taxes.

You can get the physical and mental benefits of exercise if you raise money for a charity by participating in a Walkathon, a Bike Ride or other coordinated fund raising activity.

Of course, you can also donate by volunteering your services or by raising money.

Please share how this information is useful to you. 0 Comments